Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder that involves episodes of mania and depression. There are three main types of bipolar disorder: bipolar 1, bipolar 2, and cyclothymic disorder. Each of these types of bipolar disorder presents a different frequency and intensity to the manic and depressive cycles. 

Most general cases of bipolar disorder involve mania and depression. Mania is characterized by symptoms including excessive happiness or excitability, lack of sleep, reckless behavior or speech, and irritability. Depressive episodes are typically characterized by loss of energy, less interest in regular activities, insomnia or excessive sleeping, and hopelessness.

Research estimates that approximately 1 in 40 adults in the United States have some form of bipolar disorder, making it a relatively common mental health disorder. If you’ve been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you may be wondering what causes it and what treatment looks like. 

What causes bipolar disorder to occur in people?

The exact causes of bipolar disorder aren’t well known. However, there are a few different factors that researchers believe have the potential to impact someone’s ability to develop this disorder. Some factors that may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder include:

• Family history
• Childhood trauma
• Traumatic or stressful life events
• Chemicals in the brain
• Substance use

What types of treatment are there for bipolar disorder? How can you choose the most effective one?

Fortunately, people who have bipolar disorder can receive treatment for their symptoms. Treatment is important for people who have bipolar disorder, so that they can find balance in their lives and swing less frequently between manic and depressive episodes. If you have bipolar disorder or think you may have it, you can check out our bipolar disorder quiz for a better idea. From there, we encourage you to make an appointment with a licensed mental health professional who can provide you with the treatment you need. Learn more about the types of mental health treatment available to those with bipolar disorder. There may be one most effective for you: 

• Psychotherapy with a licensed counselor — One of the best treatment methods for someone dealing with bipolar disorder is talk therapy. Talk therapy with a licensed mental health professional can be a strategic approach to helping clients address and manage their mental health. For an individual with bipolar disorder, a process-based approach can be effective, in which the underlying drivers of the mental health symptoms can be targeted. There are also different levels of care that a person can choose for their treatment, like intensive outpatient programs, residential programs, and day treatment programs, some of which can even be performed virtually.

• Medication — Another treatment option that may be effective for some who have bipolar disorder is medication. Medication is usually most impactful when joined with talk therapy. If you’re considering medication for your mental health, you should speak with a therapist for their professional opinion. 

Find the treatment you need for your bipolar disorder at Lightfully Behavioral Health

Our mission at Lightfully is to work with individuals to change their life compassionately. The framework of our clinic consists of evidence-based, clearly defined, data-driven and whole-person-centered care. 

Lightfully offers multiple levels of care to both adults and teens: Residential Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), also referred to as our Day Treatment Program. We also offer a Virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (vIOP) for adults. We regularly see clients who actively manage mood, anxiety, personality and trauma disorders. If you have experienced the symptoms of bipolar disorder, we’d like to help you. Our therapists are experienced in dealing with a variety of conditions and symptoms, including those associated with bipolar disorder. 

Our vision for the future is an authentic and loving community. We want everyone to be seen, heard and valued as they are. We believe in the light within each individual, and when that light is properly nurtured it can allow a person to shine brighter than ever before.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.